In February 1984 Nissan signed an agreement with the UK government to build a car plant in the UK and in the following month, the former Usworth Airfield site in Sunderland is chosen.
Later, in July 1984, a ground breaking ceremony took place, and work started in November 1984.
Two years later in July 1986, the first Nissan Bluebird rolls off the production line at the plant, which employed 470 staff at the time.
The official opening was hosted by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Nissan president Yutaka Kumet in September 1986.
Let’s take a look back at Nissan in the 1980s.
. The bluebird
The bluebird was the first car built at the Sunderland plant. Photo: Nissan
1. The bluebird
The bluebird was the first car built at the Sunderland plant. Photo: Nissan
2. Sunderland plant
The number of staff employed at the Sunderland plant has grown from 430 in 1986 to 6,000 today. Photo: Nissan
3. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher opened the Sunderland plant in 1986. Photo: Sunderland Echo
4. Employees
A total of 19 staff members who started in ‘86 still work today on the Nissan LEAF. Photo: Nissan